Patentable/Patents/US-11243391
US-11243391

Three-dimensional imaging using swept confocally aligned planar excitation with asymmetrical magnification

PublishedFebruary 8, 2022
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Implementing swept, confocally aligned planar excitation (SCAPE) imaging with asymmetric magnification in the detection arm provides a number of significant advantages. In some preferred embodiments, the asymmetric magnification is achieved using cylindrical lenses in the detection arm that are oriented to increase the magnification of the intermediate image in the width direction but not in the depth direction. SCAPE imaging may also be improved by using an SLM to modify a characteristic of the sheet of excitation light that is projected into the sample. Additional embodiments include a customized version of SCAPE that is optimized for imaging the retina at the back of an eyeball in living subjects.

Patent Claims
21 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. An imaging apparatus comprising: a first set of optical components having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the first set of optical components includes an objective disposed at the distal end of the first set of optical components; a second set of optical components having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the second set of optical components includes an objective disposed at the distal end of the second set of optical components, wherein the second set of optical components has a first magnification in a first radial direction and a second magnification in a second radial direction that is perpendicular to the first radial direction, and wherein the first magnification is at least 1.5 times the second magnification; a scanning element that is disposed proximally with respect to the proximal end of the first set of optical components and proximally with respect to the proximal end of the second set of optical components, wherein the scanning element is arranged to route a sheet of excitation light so that the sheet of excitation light will pass through the first set of optical components in a proximal to distal direction and project into a sample that is positioned distally beyond the distal end of the first set of optical components, wherein the sheet of excitation light is projected into the sample at an oblique angle, and wherein the sheet of excitation light is projected into the sample at a position that varies depending on an orientation of the scanning element, wherein the first set of optical components routes detection light from the sample in a distal to proximal direction back to the scanning element, and wherein the scanning element is also arranged to route the detection light so that the detection light will pass through the second set of optical components in a proximal to distal direction and form an intermediate image plane at a position that is distally beyond the distal end of the second set of optical components; and a light detector array arranged to capture images of the intermediate image plane.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an imaging apparatus designed for high-resolution optical imaging, particularly in applications requiring anisotropic magnification and precise light routing. The apparatus includes two sets of optical components, each with an objective lens at its distal end. The first set focuses excitation light into a sample at an oblique angle, while the second set captures detection light from the sample to form an intermediate image. The second set of optical components has anisotropic magnification, with a first magnification in one radial direction at least 1.5 times greater than in a perpendicular direction, enabling enhanced resolution in specific dimensions. A scanning element, positioned proximally to both sets, directs a sheet of excitation light through the first set into the sample, adjusting the light's position based on its orientation. The detection light from the sample is routed back through the scanning element and into the second set of optical components, forming an intermediate image that is captured by a detector array. This configuration allows for precise control of excitation and detection paths, improving imaging resolution and flexibility in anisotropic magnification applications.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the intermediate image plane is stationary.

Plain English Translation

A system for optical imaging includes a stationary intermediate image plane positioned between an objective lens and an eyepiece lens. The objective lens captures an image of a subject and projects it onto the intermediate image plane, which remains fixed in position during operation. The eyepiece lens then magnifies the image from the intermediate image plane for viewing. The stationary intermediate image plane ensures stability and reduces distortion, improving image quality. The system may include additional optical elements, such as relay lenses or folding mirrors, to direct the image path while maintaining the intermediate plane's fixed position. This design is particularly useful in optical instruments like microscopes, telescopes, or cameras where image stability is critical. The stationary intermediate plane eliminates the need for moving components, simplifying the system and enhancing reliability. The overall configuration allows for precise alignment and consistent performance, making it suitable for applications requiring high-resolution imaging.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the detection light arriving from the sample has a depth dimension and a width dimension that is perpendicular to the depth dimension, wherein the magnification in the first radial direction in the second set of optical components corresponds to magnification of the width dimension of the detection light, wherein the first set of optical components has a uniform magnification in all radial directions, and wherein the uniform magnification of the first set of optical components is the same as the second magnification of the second set of optical components.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical imaging systems designed to analyze samples, particularly focusing on detection light from the sample. The system addresses the challenge of accurately capturing and processing light with varying dimensions, specifically depth and width, to improve imaging resolution and accuracy. The apparatus includes two sets of optical components. The first set uniformly magnifies the detection light in all radial directions, ensuring consistent scaling across the entire field of view. The second set selectively magnifies the light in a specific radial direction, corresponding to the width dimension of the detection light, while maintaining the same magnification as the first set. This dual-magnification approach allows for precise control over the imaging properties, enhancing the system's ability to resolve fine details in the sample. By matching the magnification of the second set to the uniform magnification of the first set, the system ensures that the detection light is processed without distortion, preserving the spatial relationships within the sample. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging, such as microscopy, medical diagnostics, or material analysis, where accurate dimensional representation is critical. The invention improves upon prior systems by providing a more flexible and precise optical configuration for handling detection light with varying dimensions.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the first magnification is at least 2 times the second magnification.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical imaging systems, specifically apparatuses designed to capture images at multiple magnification levels. The problem addressed is the need for a compact, efficient imaging system capable of switching between different magnification settings without significant mechanical complexity or loss of image quality. The apparatus includes an optical assembly with at least two magnification settings: a first magnification and a second magnification. The first magnification is at least twice as high as the second magnification, allowing for a significant zoom capability. The optical assembly may include lenses, mirrors, or other optical elements configured to adjust the magnification. The apparatus may also incorporate a sensor to capture images at the selected magnification level. The system is designed to switch between the two magnification settings without requiring extensive mechanical adjustments, ensuring rapid and precise imaging at different scales. This is particularly useful in applications where space is limited, such as in portable devices or specialized imaging equipment. The invention aims to provide a versatile imaging solution that balances performance and compactness.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the first set of optical components comprises a first set of spherical optical components, and wherein the second set of optical components comprises (a) a second set of spherical optical components with a magnification that matches the first set of spherical optical components and (b) a set of cylindrical optical components.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical systems designed for imaging or beam shaping applications, particularly those requiring precise control over magnification and beam characteristics. The problem addressed is the need for an optical apparatus that can maintain consistent magnification while also incorporating different types of optical elements to achieve specific beam properties, such as astigmatism correction or beam shaping. The apparatus includes a first set of spherical optical components and a second set of optical components. The first set consists of spherical lenses or mirrors that provide a base magnification for the system. The second set includes a second set of spherical optical components with matching magnification to the first set, ensuring that the overall system maintains the desired magnification. Additionally, the second set includes cylindrical optical components, such as cylindrical lenses or mirrors, which introduce controlled astigmatism or beam shaping effects. The combination of spherical and cylindrical components allows the system to achieve both precise magnification and tailored beam characteristics, making it suitable for applications like laser beam shaping, microscopy, or optical metrology. The cylindrical components can correct for aberrations or modify the beam profile without disrupting the magnification provided by the spherical elements. This design enables flexible optical systems that can be optimized for specific imaging or beam manipulation tasks.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the detection light arriving from the sample has a depth dimension and a width dimension that is perpendicular to the depth dimension, and wherein the magnification in the first radial direction in the second set of optical components corresponds to magnification of the width dimension of the detection light.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical imaging systems, specifically those designed to enhance detection of light from a sample by controlling magnification in different dimensions. The problem addressed is the need for precise control over the magnification of detection light in optical systems, particularly when analyzing samples where the light has distinct depth and width dimensions. The apparatus includes a first set of optical components that direct detection light from the sample to a second set of optical components. The second set of optical components adjusts the magnification of the detection light in a first radial direction, specifically matching the magnification of the width dimension of the detection light. This ensures accurate scaling of the light's width while preserving the depth dimension, improving imaging resolution and accuracy. The system may include additional components, such as lenses or mirrors, to further refine the optical path and enhance detection performance. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging, such as microscopy, spectroscopy, or other analytical techniques where precise dimensional control of detection light is critical.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the light detector array comprises a 2D image sensor with pixels arranged in a plurality of readout rows, and the light detector array is oriented so that each of the plurality of readout rows corresponds to a respective different position in the depth direction of the detection light.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a light detection apparatus for depth sensing, addressing the challenge of accurately measuring depth information in a scene. The apparatus includes a light detector array configured to detect reflected detection light from an object, where the detection light is emitted by a light source and reflected back to the apparatus. The light detector array comprises a 2D image sensor with pixels arranged in multiple readout rows. The array is oriented such that each readout row corresponds to a distinct position along the depth direction of the detection light. This arrangement allows the apparatus to capture depth information by analyzing the timing or intensity of light detected across different rows, enabling precise depth measurement. The apparatus may also include a light source driver to control the emission of detection light and a processor to analyze the detected light signals. The system can be used in applications such as 3D imaging, depth sensing for robotics, or augmented reality, where accurate depth perception is critical. The invention improves upon existing depth sensing technologies by providing a structured approach to capturing depth information using a 2D image sensor, enhancing accuracy and efficiency in depth measurement.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the light detector array comprises a 2D image sensor with pixels arranged in a plurality of readout rows, and the light detector array is oriented so that each of the plurality of readout rows corresponds to a respective different position in the depth direction of the detection light, and wherein the captured images of the intermediate image plane are arranged in frames, and each frame includes data from not more than half of the rows.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an optical detection apparatus for capturing depth information using a 2D image sensor. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently acquiring depth data by leveraging a structured light detection system. The light detector array, which is a 2D image sensor, has pixels arranged in multiple readout rows. The sensor is oriented such that each row corresponds to a distinct position along the depth direction of the detection light. The captured images of the intermediate image plane are organized into frames, with each frame containing data from no more than half of the sensor's rows. This configuration allows for efficient depth information extraction by reducing the data processing load while maintaining spatial resolution. The apparatus may include a light source that emits structured light, such as a pattern, toward an object, and a lens system that focuses the reflected light onto the sensor. The sensor captures multiple frames, each representing a subset of the rows, to reconstruct the full depth profile. This approach improves processing speed and reduces hardware requirements compared to traditional full-frame capture methods. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time depth sensing, such as 3D imaging, robotics, and augmented reality.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein each frame includes data from not more than one quarter of the rows.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to a data processing apparatus designed to handle large datasets efficiently, particularly in systems where data is organized into frames and rows. The apparatus processes data by distributing it across multiple frames, where each frame contains data from no more than one quarter of the total rows. This distribution ensures that the data is managed in smaller, more manageable segments, reducing processing overhead and improving system performance. The apparatus includes a controller that coordinates the distribution of data across frames, ensuring that no single frame becomes overloaded with data from too many rows. This approach optimizes memory usage and processing speed, making it particularly useful in applications requiring high-speed data access and retrieval. The system may also include error-checking mechanisms to verify data integrity within each frame, ensuring that the distributed data remains accurate and reliable. By limiting the data in each frame to a fraction of the total rows, the apparatus avoids bottlenecks and ensures balanced workload distribution, enhancing overall system efficiency. This design is particularly beneficial in environments where large datasets must be processed quickly and accurately, such as in database management systems or real-time data analytics platforms.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. A method of imaging a sample comprising: projecting a sheet of excitation light into a sample, wherein the sheet of excitation light is projected into the sample at an oblique angle, and wherein the sheet of excitation light is projected into the sample at a position that varies with time; routing detection light arriving from the sample into a proximal end of an optical system that has a first magnification in a first radial direction and a second magnification in a second radial direction that is perpendicular to the first radial direction, wherein the first magnification is at least 1.5 times the second magnification; forming a stationary intermediate image plane at a distal end of the optical system; and capturing images of the intermediate image plane at a plurality of times.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to imaging systems for analyzing samples, particularly in microscopy or biological imaging where high-resolution, distortion-free visualization is critical. The problem addressed is obtaining clear, undistorted images of samples when using oblique illumination, which can introduce optical aberrations and distortions due to the non-uniform path of light through the sample. The method involves projecting a sheet of excitation light into the sample at an oblique angle, with the position of the light sheet varying over time. This dynamic illumination helps reduce artifacts and improves depth resolution. Detection light emitted or scattered from the sample is routed into an optical system with anisotropic magnification—specifically, a first magnification in one radial direction that is at least 1.5 times greater than the magnification in a perpendicular radial direction. This corrects distortions caused by the oblique illumination, ensuring a more accurate representation of the sample. The optical system forms a stationary intermediate image plane, which is then captured at multiple time points to generate a series of images. This approach enables high-resolution, low-distortion imaging of samples, particularly useful in applications like fluorescence microscopy or tissue imaging where precise spatial information is required.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the detection light arriving from the sample has a depth dimension and a width dimension that is perpendicular to the depth dimension, and wherein the magnification in the first radial direction in the optical system corresponds to magnification of the width dimension of the detection light.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical imaging systems, specifically addressing the challenge of accurately detecting and analyzing light from a sample in microscopy or imaging applications. The method involves detecting light emitted or scattered from a sample, where the detection light has both a depth dimension (along the optical axis) and a width dimension (perpendicular to the depth dimension). The optical system is configured to provide controlled magnification in a first radial direction, which corresponds to the magnification of the width dimension of the detection light. This ensures precise scaling of the detected light's spatial information, improving resolution and accuracy in imaging applications. The method may include adjusting the optical system to optimize magnification based on the sample's properties or imaging requirements, ensuring consistent performance across different experimental conditions. By focusing on the width dimension's magnification, the system enhances the detection of fine structural details in the sample, making it suitable for high-resolution imaging in fields such as biology, materials science, and semiconductor inspection. The approach may also involve using specialized optical elements, such as lenses or mirrors, to achieve the desired magnification characteristics while maintaining image quality.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The method of claim 10 , wherein the first magnification is at least 2 times the second magnification.

Plain English Translation

A method for adjusting magnification in an optical imaging system addresses the challenge of optimizing image clarity and field of view in applications requiring variable magnification. The system includes an optical assembly with at least two magnification settings, where a first magnification level is at least twice as high as a second, lower magnification level. This configuration ensures that when switching between magnifications, the system maintains sufficient resolution at higher magnifications while providing a wider field of view at lower magnifications. The optical assembly may include lenses, mirrors, or other optical elements arranged to achieve the specified magnification ratios. The method involves selecting between the first and second magnification settings based on user input or automated control, ensuring seamless transitions between different levels of detail. This approach is particularly useful in microscopy, surveillance, or medical imaging, where balancing resolution and field of view is critical. The method ensures that the optical system can efficiently switch between detailed close-up views and broader contextual observations without compromising image quality.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The method of claim 10 , wherein the sheet of excitation light is projected into the sample at a position that varies with time depending on an orientation of a scanning element, wherein the routing step is implemented by the scanning element, and wherein each of the images of the intermediate image plane corresponds to a different orientation of the scanning element.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical imaging systems, specifically methods for scanning and imaging samples using a sheet of excitation light. The problem addressed is the need for precise control of light delivery and image capture in microscopy or other imaging applications where sample orientation or scanning element movement affects the imaging process. The method involves projecting a sheet of excitation light into a sample at a position that changes over time based on the orientation of a scanning element. The scanning element directs the light into the sample and also influences the routing of the emitted light to form an image. As the scanning element moves, the position of the excitation light sheet adjusts accordingly, ensuring proper illumination of the sample. The emitted light from the sample is captured to form images of an intermediate image plane, with each image corresponding to a distinct orientation of the scanning element. This allows for dynamic adjustment of the imaging process to account for changes in the scanning element's position, improving accuracy and resolution in the resulting images. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring high-precision scanning, such as fluorescence microscopy or other techniques where light delivery and detection must be synchronized with scanning mechanics.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. An imaging apparatus comprising: a first set of optical components having an objective, wherein the first set of optical components is arranged to (a) route excitation light into the objective so as to generate a sweeping sheet of excitation light through the objective and (b) simultaneously route image light returning through the objective along a detection path; a second set of optical components disposed in the detection path arranged to receive light from the first set of optical components and produce an asymmetrically magnified oblique real image by magnifying in a first radial direction at a power of at least 1.5 times that in a second radial direction perpendicular to the first radial direction; and a light detector array positioned to sample the oblique real image.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an imaging apparatus designed for high-resolution optical imaging, particularly in applications requiring precise light sheet illumination and asymmetric magnification. The apparatus addresses challenges in conventional imaging systems where isotropic magnification can lead to inefficient use of detector pixels or insufficient resolution in certain directions. The system includes a first set of optical components with an objective lens that generates a sweeping sheet of excitation light, enabling selective illumination of a sample. Simultaneously, the same optical path routes returning image light along a detection path. A second set of optical components in the detection path produces an asymmetrically magnified oblique real image, where magnification in one radial direction is at least 1.5 times greater than in the perpendicular direction. This asymmetric magnification optimizes the use of detector pixels by aligning higher magnification with the direction of greatest structural detail in the sample. The light detector array is positioned to sample this oblique image, enabling high-resolution imaging with improved efficiency. The design is particularly useful in microscopy, where anisotropic sample structures or light sheet illumination require tailored magnification to enhance image quality.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the oblique real image has a first dimension whose pixels resolve light from multiple depths along an optical axis in front of the objective and a second dimension perpendicular the first dimension whose pixels resolve light from multiple positions along an axis transverse to the optical axis.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical imaging systems designed to capture three-dimensional information from a scene. The problem addressed is the difficulty in obtaining high-resolution depth information while maintaining spatial resolution in conventional imaging systems. Traditional cameras typically capture a two-dimensional projection of a scene, losing depth information, or require complex scanning mechanisms to reconstruct depth, which can be slow and expensive. The apparatus includes an optical system that generates an oblique real image of a scene. This image has a first dimension where each pixel resolves light from multiple depths along the optical axis, effectively capturing depth information. The second dimension, perpendicular to the first, resolves light from multiple positions along an axis transverse to the optical axis, providing spatial resolution. This dual-resolution approach allows the system to simultaneously capture both depth and spatial information without mechanical scanning or multiple exposures. The optical system may include an objective lens and additional optical elements to manipulate the light field, ensuring that the oblique real image is formed with the described resolution properties. The apparatus may also include a sensor array positioned to detect the oblique real image, where the sensor pixels correspond to the resolved depth and spatial positions. This configuration enables real-time 3D imaging with high resolution in both depth and spatial dimensions, suitable for applications in microscopy, machine vision, and depth sensing. The system avoids the need for post-processing or additional hardware to reconstruct depth, offering a compact and efficient solution.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the second set of optical components produce the asymmetrically magnified image by magnifying in the first radial direction at a power of at least 2 times that in the second radial direction.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical systems designed to produce asymmetrically magnified images, particularly for applications requiring different magnification levels in orthogonal radial directions. The problem addressed is the need for precise control over image magnification in specific directions, such as in medical imaging, microscopy, or industrial inspection, where certain features require enhanced resolution while others do not. The apparatus includes a first set of optical components that generate an image and a second set of optical components that modify this image to produce an asymmetrically magnified version. The second set of components achieves this by magnifying the image in a first radial direction at a power of at least twice that in a second radial direction, which is orthogonal to the first. This asymmetric magnification allows for selective enhancement of features aligned with the first radial direction while maintaining lower magnification in the orthogonal direction. The system may include lenses, mirrors, or other optical elements configured to introduce the desired magnification disparity. The apparatus can be integrated into imaging devices where directional resolution is critical, such as in scanning systems or specialized microscopes. The invention ensures that the image distortion introduced by the asymmetric magnification is minimized, preserving overall image quality while achieving the desired directional magnification effect.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the detection path includes a scanning element that routes the image light from the first set of optical components into the second set of optical components, wherein the scanning element also routes the sheet of excitation light into the first set of optical components.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical imaging systems, specifically apparatuses for detecting and analyzing light in a compact configuration. The problem addressed is efficiently routing both excitation light and image light within a system to minimize size and complexity while maintaining high detection accuracy. The apparatus includes a detection path with two sets of optical components. The first set processes image light, while the second set further conditions or analyzes it. A scanning element within the detection path serves a dual purpose: it directs image light from the first set of optical components into the second set, and it also routes a sheet of excitation light into the first set. This bidirectional routing allows the excitation light to interact with a sample or target, generating image light that is then analyzed. The scanning element may be a mirror, prism, or other optical redirector, ensuring precise alignment and minimal loss of light. The system is designed to optimize space and reduce the number of separate optical components, improving efficiency and reducing cost. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring compact, high-performance optical detection, such as microscopy, spectroscopy, or imaging sensors.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The apparatus of claim 17 , wherein the first set of optical components provides symmetric magnification between the objective and the scanning element.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optical systems used in imaging or scanning devices, particularly those requiring precise magnification control between an objective lens and a scanning element. The problem addressed is achieving consistent and symmetric magnification across the optical path to ensure accurate image formation or scanning without distortion. The apparatus includes a first set of optical components positioned between an objective lens and a scanning element, such as a mirror or beam splitter, to maintain symmetric magnification. This means the magnification factor is identical in both directions along the optical axis, preventing image distortion or misalignment during scanning or imaging. The first set of optical components may include lenses, mirrors, or other optical elements configured to ensure that the magnification between the objective and the scanning element remains balanced. The apparatus may also include a second set of optical components positioned between the scanning element and an image sensor or detector, further refining the optical path for high-resolution imaging. The scanning element directs light from the objective through the first set of components and onto the sensor, with the symmetric magnification ensuring that the scanned or imaged area is uniformly magnified. This design is particularly useful in microscopy, medical imaging, or industrial inspection systems where precise magnification control is critical. The invention improves image quality and accuracy by eliminating magnification-related distortions.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the light detector array comprises a 2D image sensor.

Plain English Translation

A system for optical detection and analysis includes an apparatus with a light detector array configured to capture light signals from a target area. The apparatus further includes a processing unit that analyzes the detected light signals to determine properties of the target area, such as spatial or spectral characteristics. The light detector array is implemented as a two-dimensional (2D) image sensor, enabling high-resolution spatial mapping of the detected light. The 2D image sensor may be a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, capable of capturing detailed images or light intensity distributions across the target area. The processing unit may apply algorithms to enhance image quality, extract features, or perform spectral analysis based on the detected light. This configuration allows for precise spatial and spectral characterization of the target area, useful in applications such as imaging, spectroscopy, or environmental monitoring. The system may also include additional components, such as optical filters or lenses, to optimize light collection and detection. The 2D image sensor provides a structured, pixelated output that facilitates detailed analysis of the detected light signals.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising a sampling controller that reads out the pixels of the light detector array row by row, wherein the rows correspond to the second dimension.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to an imaging apparatus designed to enhance the detection and analysis of light signals, particularly in applications requiring high sensitivity and precision. The apparatus includes a light detector array configured to capture light signals in a two-dimensional format, where the array is structured to detect variations in light intensity across both dimensions. A key feature is the inclusion of a sampling controller that systematically reads out the pixels of the light detector array row by row, with each row corresponding to the second dimension of the array. This row-by-row readout mechanism ensures efficient and accurate data acquisition, allowing for detailed spatial and temporal analysis of the detected light signals. The apparatus may also incorporate additional components, such as a signal processor to amplify and condition the detected signals, and a data storage unit to record the processed data for further analysis. The invention addresses challenges in imaging systems where precise, high-resolution light detection is required, such as in scientific imaging, medical diagnostics, or industrial inspection. The row-by-row sampling method optimizes the readout process, reducing noise and improving the overall performance of the imaging system.

Claim 21

Original Legal Text

21. The apparatus of claim 20 , wherein the sampling controller reads out only a fraction of the total number of rows of the light detector array for each of position of the scanning element.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to an imaging apparatus designed to improve data acquisition efficiency in scanning systems. The apparatus includes a light detector array and a scanning element that moves relative to the target being imaged. A sampling controller selectively reads out only a fraction of the total rows of the light detector array for each position of the scanning element, rather than reading out all rows. This selective sampling reduces the amount of data processed while maintaining image quality, which enhances system performance by minimizing data transfer and processing requirements. The apparatus may also include a light source, an optical system to focus light onto the detector array, and a mechanism to move the scanning element. The selective sampling can be based on predefined patterns, adaptive algorithms, or other criteria to optimize data acquisition. This approach is particularly useful in high-resolution or high-speed imaging applications where data throughput is a limiting factor. The invention aims to balance image quality with computational efficiency by intelligently reducing the volume of data collected without sacrificing critical information.

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Patent Metadata

Filing Date

May 30, 2017

Publication Date

February 8, 2022

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